September 10th is Hug Your Hound Day! Hounds have their own AKC group, which includes popular pups like the Beagle and Basset hounds, as well as lesser-known ones such as the Borzoi and Cirneco dell’Etna. We think they all deserve hugs! (And bacon … and belly rubs.) A Roanoke, VA vet offers some insight into hounds below.
There are over 30 types of hounds. While they vary in size, shape, and color, they do have one thing in common: they were all bred to hunt. The pooches are divided into three groups: Sighthounds, Scenthounds, and Other. Sight hounds, as the name suggests, track their prey visually, while scent hounds, such as the Bloodhound, follow trails. The ‘other’ pups typically use a combination of both.
Elvis didn’t write the classic song Hound Dog. It was penned by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, and originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952. The King did make the song popular, and even sang it to a Basset hound on The Steve Allen Show in July of 1956. One thing the songwriters got right? The ‘Cryin’ All The Time’ bit. Hound dogs are known for being vocal. Some even have their own unique vocalizations, known as baying.
If you have a hound, you definitely want to do something extra special for Fido. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean hugin. As it turns out, many dogs don’t really like being hugged. That isn’t because Fido doesn’t enjoy affection: he just prefers belly rubs. Hugs are actually a sign of dominance in doggy language. Your own pup may not mind if you hug him, but you should never hug a strange dog.
Every type of hound is a bit different. However, these guys do have some common characteristics. They’re lovable, active, and energetic, and have a strong inclination to follow their noses or eyes after, well, anything. Scent hounds love sniffing out things, while sighthounds love chasing. A sturdy fence and leash are musts.
Hug Your Hound Day was started by Ami Moore, a renowned dog trainer and animal advocate. Moore wanted to honor and celebrate the special bond of friendship we share with our canine companions. She’s also known for her advocacy of using positive reinforcement in training. We can definitely get on board with that one!
Do you have questions about caring for your hound? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA pet hospital, anytime!
